Continuous Improvement Manager

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Active Full Time Lancaster, PA, US Shank’s, a subsidiary of Universal Ingredients, is a premier manufacturer of vanilla extracts, other extracts, natural and artificial flavors, food colors, syrups, and sauces. Shank’s quality products are widely distributed to industrial, private-label, and grocery customers worldwide. Universal Ingredients is a global supplier of high-quality, plant-based specialty ingredients for human and pet consumption. With thousands of products and global sourcing capabilities, we provide customized, value-added solutions – including fruit and vegetable juices and concentrates, dehydrated ingredients, botanical extracts, flavors, and beverage systems – for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide. Our advanced production capabilities, including aseptic beverage processing and flexible packaging solutions, enable safe, shelf-stable products with no preservatives. At the heart of our innovation is our Application Capabilities Lab, where food science experts collaborate with customers to develop market-ready solutions through product development, flavor analysis, sensory testing, and commercialization support. Driven by innovation, sustainability, and partnership, Universal Ingredients helps customers stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences while delivering consistent quality, functionality, and performance across global markets. Available Immediately Upon Hire: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, HSA, EAP, ID Theft, 401K, and PTO. Disclaimer: Shank’s Extracts manufactures various products that identify as major food allergens (milk, eggs, tree nuts, wheat, and soybeans) as well as several other food ingredients. We cannot guarantee you will not be exposed to skin and/or odor contact with these various ingredients. Your health and safety are our number one priority, and we will do our best to accommodate within reason. ESSENTIAL FUNCTION: The Continuous Improvement Manager will spearhead process improvement initiatives, implementing lean methodologies, Six Sigma, and other best practices to drive operational efficiency and enhance productivity. In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify improvement opportunities, optimize manufacturing processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement across all levels of the organization. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Continuously evaluates manufacturing capabilities and fosters an environment of continuous improvement with the goal of meeting or exceeding defined targets (strategic/ financial/ operational). Develop, lead, implement, scale, and track improvement initiatives across all aspects of the production operations in partnership with the Finance team. Drive initiatives by leveraging multiple problem‑solving frameworks, tools, and methods such as Lean/Six Sigma/Theory of Constraints and traditional industrial engineering Work closely with the customer and internal leaders to leverage system data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement Facilitate root‑cause problem‑solving techniques to drive out losses and reduce waste. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics to track performance. Ensure the successful start‑up of any new operation as a key member of the start‑up team Train the operations team in basic problem‑solving frameworks and techniques Partner with Plant leaders to ensure development of effective LEAN/TPM operating culture, targeting specific loss areas of the plant operation. Own the development and execution of the site training program Lead and develop Continuous Improvement Specialists to drive manufacturing excellence, productivity, and waste reduction Responsible for promoting food safety and employee safety throughout the organization. Responsible for establishing and implementing employee training programs Other duties, as assigned. ESSENTIAL/SKILLS NEEDED: Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans and initiatives. Able to make decisions, is goal‑oriented, self‑motivated, proactive, and able to solve multi-dimensional problems. Experience working within a budget and being accountable for company equipment, facilities, and other material assets English comprehension including speaking, reading, and writing is required for our business's necessityto ensurea safe and effective work environment. Good verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate well with all departments. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 3-5 years’ experience executing and leading Continuous improvement methodologies Prior experience in the high-speed food manufacturing industry is required Experience in performing data analysis and leveraging reporting and data insights to drive decisions Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and influence stakeholders at all levels. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Exposure to food allergens such as, but not limited to, milk eggs, tree nuts, wheat, and soybeans will occur. Seldom exposed to dirt, heat, cold, dryness, wetness, vibration, and poor ventilation. Occasionally exposed to dust. Regularly exposed to odor. Frequently exposed to noise. Conduct, Quality, Integrity, and Culture Conduct: We will conduct every aspect of our business with honesty, integrity, and openness, respecting human rights and the interests of our employees, customers, and third parties. Quality: Shank’s is committed to food safety and product quality. We employ extensive food safety programs and controls at all levels. Our quality standards and food safety procedures are thoroughly being evaluated internally and externally. We continuously strive to improve our performance. Integrity: Shank’s and its employees will not offer, give, seek or receive, either directly or indirectly, improper inducements for business or financial gain. Where information is confidential, that confidentiality must be protected. Culture: Shank’s respects the cultural values of our employees, contractors, and customers. We also promote a balanced work‐life environment. We recognize and celebrate our employees for their hard work and the contributions they make to our company. Shanks Core Values: ASPIRATION: Share a vision for achievement ACCOUNTABILITY: Support company reputation ADAPTABILITY: Evolve to meet business needs Competitive compensation and benefits package Shank’s Extracts, LLC d/b/a Universal Ingredients – Shank’s is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA) Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr FruitSmart